Ergogenic Aids

Discussion 10 – Controversy 10: Ergogenic Aids: Breakthroughs, Gimmicks, or Dangers? Using the information found at the end of Chapter 10 about the Controversy: Ergogenic Aids: Breakthroughs, Gimmicks, or Dangers? Read first the content in the book, supplement the reading with the power point that emphasizes the main points of the controversy. Then, write a 200-250 word response of the controversy. As the book reads, “Athletes can be sitting ducks for quacks. Many are willing to try almost anything that is sold with promises of producing a winning edge or improved appearance, so long as they perceive it to be safe. Stores (on site or Internet) advertise several products that offer better performance, more muscle mass, etc., and among these products the most common include; protein powders, caffeine pills, steroid replacers, amino acid supplements, etc. – we will start with the story (found in the book) of Paige and DJ, who are college roommates, and who had experienced the famous “freshman 15,” and now they are planning to start exercising to lose of some extra-weight, and at the same time, to look good. In this context, while preparing the response keep in mind the following: 1. To increase muscle performance, Paige decides to use Carnitine, and protein powders. Discuss why Paige’s use of carnitine and protein powders will not give her an advantage in terms of muscle performance as compared with DJ’s more adequate diet and regular exercise. 2. Question #1 focused on Paige, and DJ; who are not collegiate athletes, now, think in terms of those college students who are on collegiate athletic teams. Why are amino acid supplements not recommended for athletes? 3. With the idea to improve performance some athletes use anabolic steroids, but why might the use of anabolic steroids actually work against the athlete in terms of enhancing performance? 4. Another common practice for student’s athletes is to take antioxidant supplements, but why do athletes take antioxidant supplements, and what concerns do experts have about them? 5. Application: please share how you think you will be applying the concepts learned in this controversy in your life, and/or, in the life of people that are closer to you; or, maybe in your job.